The Istanbul Card is a comprehensive public transportation boarding pass highly recommended for travelers who plan to use public transportation frequently during their stay in Istanbul. Unless you prefer to rely solely on pedestrian travel or taxi services, obtain an Istanbul Card to take full advantage of its benefits. This guide will tell you where to obtain the card, how to use it, and its advantages.
What is Istanbul Kart?
The contactless or RFID card for public transportation fare payment was launched in 2009. It is the same size as a standard credit card, making it easy to fit into your wallet. The card is pre-paid and can be easily recharged.
The Istanbul Card is a multifunctional, rechargeable card that enables users to access all public transportation services available in Istanbul, including buses, trams, subways, and ferries. As a result, it is a cost-effective and convenient option for travelers keen on exploring the city's various attractions and destinations.
Where to Get an Istanbul Kart
To obtain an Istanbul Card, visit one of the kiosks or service centers located throughout the city or purchase one from vending machines at major transportation hubs. Once you have obtained your card, you can quickly load it with credit and use it to access public transportation services. The card can also be shared among multiple travelers, making it an ideal option for families or groups.
The Istanbul Card offers a range of benefits, including discounted fares, faster boarding times, and reduced ticket prices. Additionally, the card has an intelligent chip that enables seamless and secure transactions, eliminating the need for cash or paper tickets.
How to Reload the Istanbul Kart
To add money onto your card, you have two options: visit newsstands or small shops (with a sign that says Akbil Dolum Noktası) offering reloading services, or go to special purpose machines located at major transit stations. The machines accept 10, 20, 50, and 100 TL notes and have instructions available in multiple languages.
The Advantages of Istanbul Kart
Opting for an Istanbul Kart has several benefits compared to purchasing a token or a ticket each time you take public transportation
.
- This one card can be used to pay for various modes of transportation, including buses, metros, ferries, funiculars, and tramways (even the nostalgic one running on Istiklal Caddesi). It's worth noting that cash payments are no longer accepted on most modes of transportation, which means you must purchase a token or ticket before boarding.
- Istanbul Kart is a card that can be preloaded with credits. With this card, you won't have to wait in line whenever you need a valid boarding pass for public transportation, which could cause you to miss your bus or tram. You can easily add credits to the card at designated machines, which usually have no lines.
- You don't need to physically touch the reader with the Istanbul Kart to use it. You can wave the intelligent card within 5 cm of the reader to pay for your fare. Removing it from your wallet, purse, or light handbag is usually unnecessary. Once the payment is successful, the reader will emit a sound, and the screen will light up, displaying the remaining balance on the card. If insufficient funds are unavailable, the screen will show "Kontör Yetersiz."
- Purchasing multiple cards is unnecessary if you have numerous travelers, as a single Istanbul Kart can be used for up to 5 passengers. Once the fare for the first passenger has been paid, they can proceed through the turnpike or board the transportation and then wait for a few seconds before presenting the card again. It is advisable to use the card for up to three people.
More Important Information About Istanbul Card
- During COVID-19, every person needed to have their card linked to a HES code, which is no longer necessary.
- There is only one exception: Istanbul minibusses (Minibüs or Dolmuş) still use cash, but don't worry; there is no place you can get by minibus instead of a bus.
- Regarding the Istanbul Transportation Card, it should be noted that children are not required to possess one. This regulation applies solely when children are accompanied by their parents while utilizing public transportation in Istanbul.
Conclusion
The Istanbul Card is a must-have for travelers who plan to use public transportation services extensively during their stay in Istanbul. It offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, convenience, and ease of use. You can obtain your Istanbul Card today and make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse city.
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